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How to fix a slow computerA computer usually slows down because it is short of memory or storage, is doing too much at start-up, or is waiting for updates.My computer will not turn onDo not worry yet.My computer is frozenWhen a computer stops responding, it is often just busy, but sometimes a program has got stuck.Restart, shut down or sleep: what is the difference?Restart, Shut down and Sleep all sound similar but do different things.How to free up storage spaceWhen storage fills up, a computer slows down and cannot save new files or install updates.How to install updates safelyUpdates fix security problems and bugs, so installing them is one of the best things you can do.How to back up your filesA backup is a second copy of your files kept somewhere else.My printer will not printA printer that will not print is usually down to a connection, a paper or ink problem, or a stuck print job.No sound from my computerNo sound is usually caused by muted volume, the wrong speakers being selected, or a loose cable.My computer is hot or the fan is very loudComputers get warm when they work hard, and fans spin faster to cool them.Wi-Fi keeps droppingWi-Fi that keeps dropping is frustrating, but the cause is usually the router, the distance from it, or something interfering with the signal.Connected to Wi-Fi but no internetIf your device says it is connected to Wi-Fi but websites will not load, the problem is usually between your router and the internet, not with your device.How to restart your router properlyRestarting your router fixes a surprising number of internet problems.Slow internet at homeSlow internet at home can come from your broadband, your router, your Wi-Fi signal or too many devices at once.How to connect a device to Wi-FiJoining a device to Wi-Fi takes a Wi-Fi name and a password.My phone battery drains too fastA battery that drains quickly is usually down to the screen, apps working in the background, poor signal or an ageing battery.My phone says storage is fullA full phone cannot take new photos, apps or updates.My phone is slow or keeps freezingA phone that is slow or freezes is usually short of storage, waiting for an update, or has an app that is misbehaving.How to back up your phoneA phone backup keeps a copy of your photos, contacts and settings, so if your phone is lost, broken or stolen you can set up a new one without losing everything.Staying safe onlineStaying safe online mostly comes down to a few good habits.How to spot a scam email, text or callScammers pretend to be banks, delivery firms, the tax office or people you know.How to create a strong passwordA strong password is long, unique and hard to guess.How to turn on two-step sign-inTwo-step sign-in (also called two-factor or 2-step verification) asks for a second proof that it is really you, usually a code, as well as your password.I think my account has been hackedIf you think an account has been hacked, act quickly but calmly.A pop-up says my computer has a virusA pop-up saying your computer has a virus, often with loud noises and a phone number, is almost always a scam.I cannot sign in to my emailNot being able to sign in to your email is worrying, but it is usually a typing slip, an old saved password or a locked account.My email storage is fullMost free email accounts have limited space, which is often shared with photos and files.How to stop spam emailsSpam is unwanted email, from adverts to scams.My camera or microphone is not working on video callsWhen your camera or microphone does not work on a video call, it is usually down to a permission, the wrong device being chosen, or another app already using it.Bluetooth will not connectBluetooth lets devices such as headphones, speakers and keyboards connect without cables.How to take a screenshotA screenshot is a picture of what is on your screen.How to describe a problem so we can fix it fasterThe more clearly you describe a problem, the faster we can fix it.How to set up your email on an iPhoneAdding your email to an iPhone only takes a few minutes.How to set up your email on an Android phoneAndroid phones usually come with the Gmail app, and this can also hold addresses from other providers such as Outlook.com or Yahoo.How to add an email account to OutlookOutlook on a computer can hold several email accounts at once.Outlook will not open or is stuck on loading profileWhen Outlook sits on "Loading profile" or will not open at all, the cause is often a small fault that a few simple steps can clear.Outlook is not receiving or sending emailsIf emails have stopped arriving or are stuck in your Outbox, the problem is usually a connection, a full mailbox or a setting.Why are my emails going to junk, and how to mark them as not junkEmail filters sometimes put genuine messages in Junk (also called Spam) by mistake.Why did my email bounce back? How to read the errorWhen an email bounces, you get an automatic reply, often titled "Undeliverable" or "Delivery Status Notification".What to do when an email attachment is too largeMost email providers limit attachments to a modest size, often somewhere around 20 to 25 MB in total.How to recall or undo a sent emailEveryone sends an email too soon at some point.How to set up an out-of-office replyAn out-of-office reply (also called an automatic reply) tells people you are away and when you will be back.How to create an email signatureAn email signature is the block of text that appears at the bottom of every message.Shared mailboxes: the basicsA shared mailbox is a single email address, such as info@ or accounts@, that several people can read and send from.Google storage full: Gmail, Drive and PhotosA free Google account comes with a set amount of storage shared across Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos.Microsoft 365 sign-in problemsTrouble signing in to Microsoft 365 is common and usually fixable.Microsoft Teams: no sound or cameraWhen people cannot hear you, or you cannot see them, the cause is often a setting rather than a broken device.How to join a Microsoft Teams meetingYou can join a Teams meeting from a link in an email or calendar invitation.How to share your screen in Teams, Zoom or Google MeetSharing your screen lets others see what you see, which is helpful for presentations and for showing someone a problem.Zoom and Google Meet: the basics and common fixesZoom and Google Meet both let you join video calls from a link.OneDrive is not syncingOneDrive keeps your files in step between your computer and the cloud.Google Drive for desktop: the basicsGoogle Drive for desktop puts your Drive files on your computer, so you can open and save them like any other file.How to share files safely using links and permissionsSharing a link is quick, but it can also let the wrong people see your files.Word or Excel crashed: how to recover an unsaved fileWhen Word or Excel closes unexpectedly, your work is often not lost.Excel basics: freeze panes, adding up and filtersExcel can look intimidating, but a few simple tricks solve many everyday headaches.How to fill in or sign a PDFYou can complete most PDF forms and add a signature on your own computer or phone, without printing.Password managers: the basicsA password manager remembers all your passwords for you, so you only have to remember one strong password.What to do with old accounts you cannot get intoMost of us have old email or online accounts we have forgotten.How to set up a new Echo Dot or Echo speaker step by stepSetting up an Echo speaker takes about ten minutes and uses the Alexa app on your phone.How to set up a new Echo Show step by stepAn Echo Show is an Echo with a screen.Echo Dot will not connect to Wi-Fi, or you need to change the Wi-Fi networkIf your Echo cannot join your Wi-Fi, or you have a new router and need to move it to the new network, the fixes below usually work.Alexa says "I'm having trouble connecting"This message means the Echo cannot reach Amazon over the internet at that moment.Echo shows as offline in the Alexa appWhen the Alexa app says your Echo is offline, it means the app cannot reach the speaker through your Wi-Fi.What the Echo light ring colours meanThe light ring on an Echo speaker tells you what Alexa is doing.Alexa does not respond or keeps hearing me wrongIf Alexa ignores you, answers the wrong question or wakes up by itself, the cause is usually something simple such as the microphone being off, background noise or the Echo's position.Alexa app cannot find my Echo or other deviceWhen the Alexa app cannot see your new Echo during setup, the problem is nearly always Bluetooth, location permissions or Wi-Fi on your phone rather than the speaker itself.Alexa volume too low or music keeps stutteringQuiet playback or music that cuts out is commonly caused by weak Wi-Fi, a busy router or the Echo being in a poor spot.How to set up multi-room music and speaker groups with EchoWith a speaker group you can play the same music in several rooms at once, or in a pair of speakers for stereo sound.How to link Spotify, Amazon Music, BBC Sounds or TuneIn to AlexaAlexa can play from several music and radio services.How to pair an Echo with a Bluetooth speaker or your phoneAn Echo can play music from your phone over Bluetooth, or send its own sound to a separate Bluetooth speaker.How to set up Alexa routines for morning and bedtimeA routine lets one phrase or a set time trigger several actions, such as turning on the lights, reading the news and telling you the weather.Alexa alarms, timers and reminders not workingIf your alarm did not ring, a timer stayed silent or a reminder did not appear, the cause is usually volume, a lost Wi-Fi connection or the wrong time zone.How to use shopping lists and to-do lists with AlexaAlexa can keep a shopping list and a to-do list that you add to by voice and see on your phone.Alexa calls, messages and Drop In: how they work and how to keep them privateEcho devices can make calls and send messages to other Alexa users, and a feature called Drop In lets approved people start talking to your Echo without you answering.Echo Show camera and privacy shutter, and how to turn the microphone offYou are always in control of an Echo's microphone, and an Echo Show's camera.How to review and delete Alexa voice recordings, and Alexa privacy basicsAlexa keeps a history of what you say to it, so you can see and delete it.Alexa Guard, Brief Mode and Follow-up Mode: what they doThese are three extra features you may meet in Alexa settings.How to link smart plugs and bulbs to Alexa, and fix "device unresponsive"Alexa can switch plugs, bulbs and heating if they are made by a brand that works with Alexa, such as Hive, Ring, Tapo or TP-Link.How to group smart devices into rooms in Alexa, and Philips Hue basicsPutting devices in rooms and groups lets you say, "Alexa, turn off the living room lights", and control several at once.How to control your TV with Alexa, and what to do when it stops workingWith the right setup you can say, "Alexa, turn on the TV" or "Alexa, pause".Fire TV Stick shows a black screen or no signalA black screen or a No Signal message usually means the TV is not looking at the Fire Stick, or the stick is not getting enough power.Fire TV remote not working, or how to pair it againIf your Fire TV remote stopped working, the cause is usually flat batteries or the remote needing to be paired again.Fire TV Stick Wi-Fi problems and bufferingBuffering, freezing and "cannot connect to the network" on a Fire Stick are nearly always down to Wi-Fi strength or speed.Fire TV Stick storage full: how to clear space and cacheFire Sticks have limited storage.How to install BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Netflix on a Fire TV StickInstalling an app on a Fire Stick takes a minute.Fire TV apps will not load, crash or freezeWhen an app on your Fire Stick sticks on a logo, shows an error or closes by itself, work through these steps, starting with the easiest.How to sign out or change the Amazon account on a Fire TV or Echo, and fix Prime login problemsDevices are tied to one Amazon account.How to factory reset a Fire TV StickA factory reset wipes the Fire Stick and returns it to how it was when new.Fire TV parental controls, PIN and kids' profilesYou can protect a Fire TV with a PIN, limit what children can watch and set up a profile for them.How to mirror your phone to a Fire TV StickYou can show your phone screen on the TV using a Fire Stick, but how it works depends on your phone and your Fire TV model.Alexa scams and unexpected purchases: how to stop themEcho devices can order from Amazon by voice, and scammers sometimes pretend to be Amazon.How to sell, give away or return an Echo (deregister it first)Before passing on an Echo, you should remove it from your Amazon account, so the next person cannot use your account and you do not lose track of it.The 3-2-1 backup rule for a small businessLosing your customer records, invoices or photos can stop a small business overnight.Sharing files safely: OneDrive, SharePoint and Google Drive basicsCloud storage makes teamwork easy, but one wrong sharing setting can expose customer files to the world.IT checklist for a new starter and a leaverPeople joining and leaving are the moments when IT mistakes happen.Who should have admin rights on business computers?An administrator account can install software and change almost any setting.A password policy that actually worksStrict password rules that nobody can follow lead to sticky notes and reused passwords.What to do after a suspected breach in a small businessFinding out that an account may have been taken over, or that data may have leaked, is stressful.Phishing training for staff in 10 minutesMost small business attacks begin with a message that tricks someone into clicking, paying or sharing a password.Keeping software up to date across several PCsUpdates fix security holes that criminals actively use.Cyber Essentials in plain EnglishCyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme that helps organisations protect themselves against the most common internet attacks.Do I need to register with the ICO? How to checkThe Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) regulates data protection in the UK.Setting up business email on your own domainEmail such as you@yourbusiness.co.uk looks more professional than a free address, and you control it.How to choose a good IT support providerGood IT support saves time and prevents disasters.A simple IT equipment register and replacement cycleYou cannot protect what you do not know you have.Encrypting laptop drives with BitLocker or FileVaultIf a laptop is lost or stolen, encryption stops a thief from reading the files on it.Protecting shop or office Wi-Fi and separating card terminalsA weak business Wi-Fi network can give attackers a way to reach your computers and customer data.What to do when a work laptop is lost or stolenIt happens to many businesses.Disaster recovery on one pageA disaster recovery plan says what you will do if IT stops working: fire, flood, theft, ransomware or a failed system.Domain names and renewals: do not lose your domainYour domain name is your web and email address.Clevertouch screen will not turn onWhen an interactive screen stays dark, the cause is usually something simple like a switched-off socket or a loose lead.Touch is not working or is in the wrong place on a Clevertouch screenIf the screen shows a picture but does not respond to your finger, or draws somewhere other than where you touch, there are a few common causes.Pens and erasers not writing on an interactive screenPens that do not write, or a finger that draws when you wanted the pen, are common in busy classrooms.Ghost touches and random touches on an interactive screenGhost touches are when the screen behaves as if someone is touching it when nobody is.No sound or low volume on a Clevertouch screenIf the picture is fine but there is no sound, the cause is usually muted volume, the wrong sound output, or a lead problem.How to change the input source on a Clevertouch screenAn interactive screen can show different things: its own built-in system, a laptop, or a computer module fitted inside.Clevertouch screen says no signal"No signal" simply means the screen is not receiving a picture from the input it is looking at.Connecting a laptop to a Clevertouch screen with HDMI and USBThe usual way to show your laptop on an interactive screen is an HDMI lead for the picture and sound, plus a USB lead so you can use touch on the laptop.Screen mirroring and casting to a Clevertouch screenYou can often show a phone, tablet or laptop on an interactive screen without leads.Using the built-in whiteboard on a Clevertouch screenMost Clevertouch screens come with a built-in whiteboard so you can write, draw and teach without a laptop.Saving and sharing whiteboard files on a Clevertouch screenAnything you write on the whiteboard can be lost when the screen is restarted or someone else uses it.Using the built-in web browser on a Clevertouch screen safelyMany interactive screens include a web browser so you can show a website without a laptop.Android apps and the app store on a Clevertouch screenMany Clevertouch screens run a version of Android inside, which lets you open built-in apps.Split screen, screenshots and annotating on an interactive screenInteractive screens often let you show two things side by side, capture what is on the screen, or write over the top of other content.Connecting a Clevertouch screen to Wi-Fi or a wired networkThe built-in apps, web browser, cloud saving and wireless sharing all need the screen to be on a network.Updating Clevertouch software and firmware safelyUpdates can fix problems and add features, but a bad update can leave a screen unusable in front of a class.Factory reset warning: what you lose on a Clevertouch screenA factory reset returns a screen to how it was when it was new.Clevertouch screen frozen or running slowlyA screen that responds late, freezes, or jumps can make a lesson stressful.Cleaning an interactive screen safelyFingerprints, chalk dust and pen marks build up fast.Moving, transporting and mounting an interactive screen safelyInteractive screens are large, heavy and easy to damage.Using a visualiser or document camera with an interactive screenA visualiser, also called a document camera, lets you show a book, a worksheet or an experiment on the big screen.Classroom audio: soundbars, speakers and microphonesGood sound matters as much as a good picture.Connecting a wireless presenter to an interactive screen or laptopA wireless presenter, sometimes called a clicker, lets you move slides forward without standing at the laptop.Using Microsoft Teams or Zoom on an interactive panelInteractive screens are often used for meetings and remote lessons.OPS computer module problems on a Clevertouch screenSome interactive screens have a small Windows computer slotted into the back, often called an OPS module.Clevertouch remote control not workingThe remote is easy to lose and its batteries run flat.Quick-start routine for new teachers: start of lesson and end of dayA short routine makes an interactive screen feel simple.Troubleshooting checklist before you call support for an interactive screenSupport can help much faster if you tell them the right details.Turning a Clevertouch screen on and off properlySwitching an interactive screen on and off the right way protects the screen, saves energy and avoids the odd start-up problems that come from pulling the plug.A tour of the screen: home screen, side toolbar and source menuClevertouch screens look slightly different depending on the model and software version, but most share the same basic layout.Writing, erasing and choosing pen colours on an interactive screenWriting on an interactive screen feels much like using a marker pen.Touch gestures on an interactive screen: moving, zooming and erasingInteractive screens understand more than a single tap.Lynx Whiteboard: pages, shapes and textLynx Whiteboard is the whiteboard software found on many Clevertouch screens.Lynx Whiteboard: handwriting to text, backgrounds, images and templatesOnce you can write and draw in the whiteboard, a few extra features make lessons look more polished.Infinite canvas and recording a lesson on an interactive screenSome interactive screens let you work on a canvas that keeps growing, and some can record what happens on the screen.Spotlight, screen shade, ruler and protractor toolsMany interactive screens include teaching tools that help you focus attention or measure things.Importing a PowerPoint or PDF and annotating over itMany teachers already have slides and worksheets.Opening Google Slides or Microsoft Office on an interactive screenYou can often use Google Slides, Word, PowerPoint and similar tools directly on the screen, or you can use them on your laptop and show them on the screen.Using Clevershare step by step on Windows and MacClevershare is Clevertouch's wireless sharing tool.Using Clevershare on Chromebook, iPad, iPhone and AndroidClevershare and similar wireless methods can often be used from tablets and phones as well as computers.Sharing your screen wirelessly with students, including AirPlay and ChromecastWireless sharing lets pupils show their work on the big screen from their seats.Using a Clevertouch screen with Google Classroom or Teams for EducationInteractive screens work well with the online tools many schools already use.Two people writing at once and group activities on an interactive screenMany interactive screens can recognise more than one touch at the same time, so two or more people can write together.Starting a meeting in two minutes on an interactive screenAn interactive screen is a handy meeting tool, but only if it is ready when people walk in.Presenting from a laptop and annotating over your slides in a meetingYou can present from your laptop and still use the touch screen to highlight, circle and write notes over your slides.Saving a lesson to USB, Google Drive or OneDrive and opening it at homeA lesson you create on the screen is only useful if you can get it back later.Locking and unlocking the screen, and using touch lockLocking a screen can stop pupils changing things, stop accidental touches during a video, and keep private material private.Brightness, eye-care mode, language, date and time on a Clevertouch screenA few simple settings make the screen more comfortable to look at and help sign-in and calendars work properly.Picture too large, cut off or too small on an interactive screenIf the edges of your desktop, slides or taskbar are missing, or if there are black borders around the picture, the screen is probably scaling the signal wrongly.Blurry text or flickering picture on an interactive screenText that looks soft, fuzzy or too small, or a picture that shimmers and flickers, is annoying on a big screen.Touch is in the wrong place after plugging in a laptopIf you touch one spot and the pointer appears somewhere else, or touch controls your laptop's own screen instead of the panel, the computer has mixed up which display the touch belongs to.Touch works on the panel but not on the laptopThe panel's own apps respond to touch, but when you connect your laptop the screen shows your laptop and touch does nothing.One corner not responding, or pen works but finger does notWhen part of the screen ignores you, or one kind of touch works and another does not, the cause is usually something blocking the touch sensors or a setting, not a broken screen.Lag when writing on an interactive screenIf the ink trails behind your pen, or the screen takes a moment to react to a touch, it makes writing frustrating.HDMI keeps dropping, or says No signal after a laptop wakes upYou connect your laptop, the picture appears, then it disappears or flashes.Clevertouch screen goes to standby by itselfIf your interactive screen goes dark or switches off when you did not touch it, there is usually a setting or a connection causing it.USB sticks not detected, and storage full on the panelTwo problems often go together.Apps crashing or freezing on an interactive screenWhen an app closes by itself, freezes or will not open, it is nearly always fixable without any tools.Wi-Fi login on a school network: when to ask ITConnecting a Clevertouch screen to a school or office network is not always as simple as joining Wi-Fi at home.Clevershare codes not working, or the connection keeps droppingYou enter a code to share your screen, but it is rejected, or the connection starts and then drops.Using the microphone and camera with Teams or Zoom on a Clevertouch screenSome interactive screens have a built-in camera and microphone, and others do not.End-of-term shutdown and summer holiday checklist for interactive screensA little care before the holidays protects the screen, saves energy and means a smooth start in September.Health and safety basics for interactive screensInteractive screens are large, heavy and connected to power and data cables.Clevertouch screens: frequently asked questions for new staffStarting at a new school or office can be a lot to take in.My TV has sound but no pictureIf your TV plays sound but the screen stays black, the problem is often a setting or a loose cable rather than a broken TV.My TV will not turn onA TV that will not switch on can be alarming, but the cause is often simple.Freeview channels are missing: how to retuneIf some Freeview channels have disappeared, or you see "no signal" on channels such as BBC One or ITV1, retuning your TV usually brings them back.My TV keeps disconnecting from Wi-FiSmart TVs rely on Wi-Fi for apps like BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Netflix.Netflix or iPlayer keeps buffering or crashing on my TVWhen Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Disney+ or Prime Video stalls, shows a spinning circle or closes by itself, the cause is usually a weak internet connection, a busy TV or an out-of-date app.How to connect a laptop to your TVConnecting a laptop to a TV lets you watch videos, photos or a presentation on the big screen.How to show your phone screen on your TVYou can show photos, videos or apps from your phone on your TV without cables.My Fire Stick, Chromecast or Apple TV is not workingStreaming sticks and boxes plug into your TV and give you apps such as BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Netflix and Disney+.HDMI: no signal and HDMI-CEC explainedHDMI is the cable that carries picture and sound between your TV and devices such as a Sky box, games console or soundbar.Soundbar setup and no soundA soundbar can make TV speech and films much clearer.TV remote control not working or needs pairingWhen a remote stops working, it is usually the batteries, but there are other quick fixes.TV picture settings explained simplyTVs come with picture modes and settings that can look confusing.How to limit adverts and data tracking on your smart TVSmart TVs often collect information about what you watch and use it for adverts.Alexa, Google Home or HomePod says it is having troubleSmart speakers such as Amazon Echo, Google Nest and Apple HomePod need Wi-Fi to work.Smart plugs and smart bulbs will not connectSmart plugs and bulbs from makers like TP-Link, Philips Hue, Wiz and others let you control lights from your phone or voice.Video doorbell or camera shows offlineVideo doorbells and cameras, such as Ring, Google Nest, Blink and similar, need a steady Wi-Fi link.PlayStation, Xbox and Switch: connection and slow download problemsGames consoles use your home internet for game downloads, updates and online play.Console storage full and controller will not connectTwo common console problems are running out of storage and a controller that will not pair.Games console parental controls basicsParental controls help you decide what children can play, who they can talk to and how long they can spend online.Smart home safety: updates, strong passwords and two-step sign-inSmart TVs, speakers, plugs, cameras and doorbells are all connected to your home network.Mac: my Mac is slow or shows the spinning wheelThe spinning rainbow wheel means your Mac is busy and cannot keep up with what you have asked it to do.Mac: my Mac will not start upIf your Mac does not start, do not panic.Mac: storage is full and what is System DataA message saying your startup disc is almost full can stop updates and slow your Mac.Mac: Wi-Fi keeps dropping or will not connectWhen the Wi-Fi on your Mac stops working, the fault is often with the router or the connection, not the Mac itself.Mac: how to close a frozen app (Force Quit)When an app stops responding, you can close it without restarting your whole Mac.Mac: how to install macOS updates safelyUpdates keep your Mac secure and working well.Mac: Time Machine backup basicsTime Machine is the backup tool built into every Mac.Mac: sound, microphone or camera not workingIf you cannot hear anything, or people cannot hear or see you on calls, the cause is usually a setting rather than a fault.Mac: how to set up and fix printingMost modern printers work with a Mac without any extra software.Mac: how to use Safe ModeSafe Mode starts your Mac with only the essentials.Mac: forgotten your Mac passwordForgetting a Mac password is common, and Apple provides official ways to get back in.Mac: how to take screenshots and record your screenA screenshot is a picture of what is on your screen.Mac: useful keyboard shortcuts for everyday useKeyboard shortcuts save time and make a Mac feel easier to use.Switching from Windows to a Mac: what is differentMoving from Windows to a Mac can feel strange at first, but most things have an equivalent.Chromebook: it will not turn on or chargeA Chromebook that seems dead is often just out of battery or has a charging problem.Chromebook: how to speed up a slow ChromebookChromebooks are built to be quick, but they slow down when memory, storage or the browser gets overloaded.Chromebook: Wi-Fi problems and how to fix themWhen the internet fails on a Chromebook, the cause is often the router or a simple setting.Chromebook: sign-in problems and school or work managed accountsSign-in problems on a Chromebook are usually about the Google account, not the device.Chromebook: storage full and how to free spaceChromebooks often have small storage, so they can fill up quickly.Chromebook: how to update ChromeOSChromeOS updates itself in the background, but it does help to check, especially if something is not working properly.Chromebook: how to Powerwash (reset) safelyA Powerwash is a factory reset for a Chromebook.Chromebook: keyboard, touchpad and screen problemsIf part of your Chromebook is misbehaving, a few simple checks fix most problems.Chromebook: how to connect a printerChromebooks can print to most modern printers that connect by Wi-Fi, without needing any special software.Chromebook: using Android apps and Google PlayMany newer Chromebooks can install Android apps from the Google Play Store, such as games and other tools.Chromebook: how to take screenshots and record your screenScreenshots are pictures of what is on your screen.Chromebook: automatic update expiry (AUE) explainedEvery Chromebook has an end date for updates, called the Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date.iPhone and Android: phone will not chargeA phone that will not charge is usually down to a worn cable, a dirty port or a faulty plug rather than a broken phone.iPhone and Android: phone will not turn on or is stuck on the logoIf your phone shows a black screen, or keeps showing the Apple or manufacturer logo and never reaches the home screen, there are a few safe things to try before assuming the worst.iPhone and Android: what to do with a cracked screenA cracked screen is very common and often fixable.iPhone and Android: phone is getting too hotPhones get warm when charging, gaming, filming video or using maps for a long time.iPhone and Android: what to do if your phone got wetMany modern phones are water resistant, but that is not the same as waterproof.iPhone and Android: touch screen not respondingIf the screen ignores your taps, lags or does things on its own (sometimes called ghost touch), the cause is often something simple like dirt, moisture or software.iPhone and Android: apps keep crashing or will not updateWhen an app closes by itself, freezes or refuses to update, the fix is often a restart, a little free space or a fresh install.iPhone and Android: no signal or mobile data not workingIf your phone shows No Service, or you have signal bars but the internet will not load on mobile data, work through these steps.iPhone and Android: call problems, Wi-Fi calling and not hearing the callerCalls that drop out, will not connect or sound too quiet have several possible causes.iPhone and Android: text messages not sendingTexts fail for different reasons depending on whether they are sent as iMessage, standard SMS or RCS chat.iPhone and Android: pairing Bluetooth headphones, speakers and carsBluetooth is handy, but pairing can be fiddly.iPhone and Android: forgot your passcode, PIN or patternForgetting your passcode is stressful, but there are official ways back in.iPhone and Android: Apple Account or Google account lockedYour Apple Account (formerly Apple ID) or Google account is the key to your phone, photos, apps and backups.iPhone and Android: find a lost phone with Find My and Find HubIf your phone goes missing, a tracking service can show where it is, play a sound, lock it or erase it.iPhone and Android: moving your data to a new phoneSwitching phones does not have to mean losing photos, contacts and messages.Android: how to back up your phoneA backup means a copy of your phone's important information, kept somewhere safe.iPad and tablets: free up storage spaceIf your iPad or Android tablet says Storage Almost Full, it can stop updates, photos and apps working.iPhone, iPad and Android: update the software safelyUpdates fix security holes and bugs, and are worth installing.iPhone and Android: notifications not working, Focus and Do Not DisturbIf you miss messages, calls or alerts until you open the app, a setting is usually silencing them.iPhone and Android: Face ID or fingerprint not workingFace ID and fingerprint unlock are convenient, but they can stop working when something changes, such as a new case, a cracked sensor or damp fingers.iPhone and Android: using your phone as a hotspot, and testing if Wi-Fi is the problemA hotspot shares your phone's mobile data with a laptop, tablet or other device.iPhone and Android: screen time and parental controls basicsParental controls help children use phones and tablets safely, and screen time tools help adults too.iPhone and Android: spotting scam texts and fake delivery messagesScam texts are very common in the UK.Android: remove adverts and pop-ups caused by malware or adwareConstant pop-ups, adverts on the home screen, unexpected apps or a browser that keeps redirecting can mean adware or malware.iPhone and Android: WhatsApp backup, restore, missing messages and new phonesWhatsApp keeps your chats on your phone, so a lost or replaced phone can mean lost conversations unless you have a backup.iPhone and Android: take screenshots and record your screenScreenshots and screen recordings are a great way to show someone a problem, save a ticket or keep a receipt.Setting up a Google Nest Mini or Nest Hub in the Google Home appA Nest Mini (speaker) or Nest Hub (speaker with a screen) is set up using the free Google Home app on your phone.Nest speaker or display says 'Something went wrong' or shows offlineWhen a Google Nest speaker or display says "Something went wrong", or the Google Home app says it is offline, it has usually lost its connection to your internet.Changing the Wi-Fi network on a Nest speaker or displayIf you have a new router, a new Wi-Fi name or a new password, your Nest speaker or display needs to be told.'Hey Google' is not responding on my Nest speakerIf you say "Hey Google" and nothing happens, the speaker may not be listening, may have lost its internet connection, or may not recognise your voice.Setting up a Chromecast with Google TV or an older ChromecastA Chromecast plugs into a spare HDMI socket on your TV.Chromecast says 'Can't cast' or does not appear in my listWhen you tap the cast icon and your Chromecast does not appear, or you see a message such as "Can't cast", it is nearly always a network problem.Casting to your TV from an iPhone, Android phone or Chrome on a laptopCasting means sending a video, music or a web page from your phone or laptop to your TV, using a Chromecast or a TV with Chromecast built in.Nest thermostat basics: setting the temperature and scheduleGoogle Nest thermostats can be controlled on the wall and from the Google Home app.Nest thermostat offline or heating not respondingIf your Nest thermostat shows as offline in the Google Home app, or the heating is not doing what you asked, there are a few simple checks to try before calling anyone.Nest or Ring doorbell or camera shows offlineA video doorbell or camera that goes offline cannot record or send alerts, so it is worth fixing quickly.Doorbell or camera alerts arriving late or not at allAlerts that come late, or not at all, are frustrating when you want to know who is at the door.Setting up a Ring doorbell or camera and getting the Wi-Fi rightRing devices are set up using the Ring app.Hive heating thermostat basics: temperature, schedule and boostHive thermostats work with the Hive app and a Hive Hub that connects to your router with a cable (some newer or smaller models connect differently, so check yours).Setting up a Tapo camera, plug or bulb and fixing connection problemsTapo is a brand of smart plugs, bulbs and cameras made by TP-Link.Apple HomePod basics: set up, Siri and AirPlayHomePod and HomePod mini are Apple smart speakers.AirPlay or HomePod not showing up on my iPhone, Mac or TVAirPlay lets you send music, video or your screen from an Apple device to a HomePod, Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible speaker or TV.Selling or giving away a smart speaker, display or camera: wiping it firstBefore you sell, give away or recycle a smart speaker, display, doorbell or camera, you should remove it from your account and wipe it.Choosing between Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit for beginnersAll three of the big voice assistants can play music, answer questions and control lights and heating.Where to put your router for the best Wi-FiWhere your router sits makes a bigger difference to your Wi-Fi than most people expect.Wi-Fi extenders, mesh and powerline explainedIf your Wi-Fi does not reach every room, there are three common fixes.2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz Wi-Fi explained simplyModern routers send Wi-Fi on more than one set of frequencies, called bands.How to change your Wi-Fi name and password safelyChanging your Wi-Fi name and password is a good idea if you have shared it widely or it is still the original one from the router.How to find your Wi-Fi password on a phone or PCIf you have forgotten your Wi-Fi password, you may not need to reset anything.Slow Wi-Fi in one roomWhen Wi-Fi is fine in most of the house but poor in one room, the cause is almost always distance or something blocking the signal.How to run a broadband speed test properlyA speed test is a quick way to check what your broadband is delivering.What to do when your internet is downWhen the internet stops working it is frustrating, but the cause is often simple.Router lights explainedThe little lights on your router can tell you a lot about what is wrong.Broadband outages and compensation: what you can claimIf your broadband stops working, you may be owed money.New router or new provider: day checklistA little preparation makes switching provider or setting up a new router much smoother.How to set up guest Wi-FiA guest network gives visitors internet access without giving them your main Wi-Fi password or letting them see your computers, printers and other devices.Parental controls basicsParental controls help keep children away from content that is not suitable for them and let you set limits on screen time.DNS problems explainedDNS is like the internet's phone book.IP address conflicts and limited connectivitySometimes a device says it is connected to Wi-Fi but shows a message such as Limited connectivity or No internet.Smart devices will not join Wi-FiSmart plugs, bulbs, doorbells, cameras and many other gadgets can be fussy about joining Wi-Fi.How to secure your routerYour router is the front door to your home network.What is a VPN and do you need one?A VPN, or virtual private network, creates a protected tunnel for your internet traffic.Slow internet when everyone is home, and bufferbloatDoes your internet crawl in the evening when everyone is online?Why a website works on mobile data but not on Wi-FiIt can be puzzling when a website or app works on your phone's mobile data but not on your home Wi-Fi.Word: track changes explainedTrack Changes lets you and your colleagues edit a document while Word keeps a record of every addition, deletion and formatting change.Word: how to add page numbersPage numbers help readers find their way around a longer document.Word: how to make a table of contentsA proper table of contents in Word builds itself from your headings and can be updated with one click.Word: how to mail merge letters and labelsA mail merge lets you write one letter and have Word fill in each person's name and address from a list.Word: why your formatting keeps changingPasting text and watching it change font, size or spacing is one of the most annoying things in Word.Word: how to set spell-check to English (UK)If Word keeps underlining words like colour or organise in red, or suggests American spellings, its proofing language is set to US English.Excel: XLOOKUP and VLOOKUP explained simplyA lookup formula finds a value in a list and brings back something from the same row.Excel: conditional formatting basicsConditional formatting changes how a cell looks based on what is in it.Excel: fix numbers stored as textIf Excel will not add up a column, or your numbers sit on the left of the cell instead of the right, they are probably stored as text.Excel: why you see #### in a cellSeeing a row of hash signs () in a cell looks alarming, but your data is almost certainly fine.Excel: how to print a sheet to fit on one pageFew things are more irritating than printing a spreadsheet and finding that one column has spilled onto a second page.Excel: how to protect a sheet so cells cannot be changedProtecting a sheet stops people accidentally overwriting formulas or headings.Excel: your first pivot tableA pivot table summarises a long list in seconds.Excel: how to create a drop-down list in a cellA drop-down list lets people pick from a set of choices instead of typing.PowerPoint: slide master basics for consistent slidesThe Slide Master is the control room of your presentation.PowerPoint: how to use Presenter ViewPresenter View shows you your notes, the next slide and a timer on your laptop, while the audience sees only the current slide on the big screen.PowerPoint: file too big? How to compress imagesA presentation that is too big to email is usually full of large photos.Outlook: how to create rules to sort your emailRules tell Outlook what to do with certain emails automatically.Outlook: how to share your calendarSharing your calendar lets colleagues see when you are free, which makes arranging meetings much easier.Outlook: how to give someone delegate accessDelegate access lets someone else, such as an assistant, manage part of your mailbox or calendar on your behalf.Outlook: search is not working or finds nothingIf Outlook says there are no results for an email you know is there, do not panic.Teams: chat or channel? Which one to useTeams has two main ways to talk to people, and choosing the right one keeps conversations tidy.Teams: how meeting recordings and transcripts workTeams can record a meeting and write a transcript of what was said.Teams: how to control notificationsIf Teams pings you all day, or you miss important messages, you can adjust it.OneNote: the basics for beginnersOneNote is a digital notebook.Microsoft 365 licences explained simply: home or business?Microsoft sells Office in several ways, and the names can be confusing.Office says 'Product deactivated' or 'Unlicensed product'Seeing a banner such as 'Product Deactivated', 'Unlicensed Product' or 'Activation failed' is worrying, but it is usually fixable.Office will not open: how to repair it safelyIf Word, Excel or Outlook crashes at start, freezes, or says it needs repairing, Windows has a built-in repair tool that is usually safe.Microsoft Forms: how to make a survey or quizMicrosoft Forms lets you build a survey, sign-up sheet or quiz, send a link, and see the answers collected for you.Microsoft Planner: how to organise tasks with your teamPlanner is a simple board for tracking who is doing what.My printer says it is offlineWhen a printer shows as offline, your computer has lost contact with it, even though the printer may look perfectly fine.My printer prints blank or very faint pagesBlank or pale pages are frustrating, and the cause is often simple.Streaky prints and cleaning the print headsLines, bands or missing colours across your prints usually mean the nozzles that spray ink are partly blocked.How to clear a paper jam safelyPaper jams happen to every printer.My printer will not connect to Wi-FiA wireless printer can only work if it is joined to the same Wi-Fi as your computer or phone.How to set up a new wireless printerSetting up a wireless printer takes about 15 minutes if you do things in the right order.My printer says the ink is not recognised or not genuineSometimes a printer shows a message saying a cartridge is not recognised, is not genuine, or cannot be used.How to scan a document to your computer or emailScanning turns a paper page into a file on your computer.How to reinstall a printer driverA driver is the small piece of software that lets your computer talk to the printer.How to clear a stuck print queueSometimes a print job gets stuck, and everything behind it waits.How to print from your phone or tabletYou can print straight from a phone or tablet without a computer, as long as your printer is on Wi-Fi and supports wireless printing from mobile devices.How to set up a second monitorA second screen gives you more room to work, for example email on one and a document on the other.My monitor says no signal"No signal" means the monitor is working but is not getting a picture from the computer.My screen looks blurry or the wrong sizeIf text looks fuzzy, icons are huge or everything seems stretched, the screen resolution or scaling is probably set wrongly.My monitor flickers or flashesA flickering screen is distracting and can cause headaches.My computer does not recognise a USB deviceYou plug something in, such as a printer, mouse or memory stick, and the computer ignores it or says it is not recognised.My USB drive is not showing or asks me to format itSeeing a message such as "You need to format the disk before you can use it" is worrying.How to safely remove a USB drive or external hard drivePulling out a drive while the computer is still using it can damage the files or the drive.My external hard drive is clicking or beepingAn external hard drive that clicks, grinds or beeps is warning you of a problem.Wireless mouse or keyboard not working: pairing and batteriesWireless mice and keyboards are handy, but they can stop working because of flat batteries or a lost connection.My webcam is not detected or not workingIf your webcam shows a black picture or the video app says no camera was found, the cause is usually a setting rather than a broken camera.My headset or earbuds microphone is not workingIf people cannot hear you on a call, or the sound goes only one way, the microphone is probably muted, switched off or not chosen as the one to use.My docking station is not working properlyA docking station lets a laptop use a monitor, keyboard, mouse and other items through one cable.Cables explained: HDMI, USB-C and DisplayPortCables look alike, but they do different jobs.HP printer says Offline: how to fixWhen your computer says an HP printer is Offline, it usually means the two cannot talk to each other.HP Smart app: how to set up your HP printer on Wi-FiThe HP Smart app is HP's free app for setting up a printer, and for printing and scanning from a phone, tablet or computer.HP Instant Ink: how it works, pros and cons, and how to cancelHP Instant Ink is a subscription where you pay a monthly fee based on pages printed rather than buying ink each time.HP printer says cartridge problem or low ink after replacing: what to checkYou have fitted a new HP cartridge, yet the printer still says it is missing, damaged, empty or "not recognised".HP printer prints streaky or faded: cleaning and aligning the print headStreaks, white lines or faded colours on an HP inkjet usually mean the print head needs cleaning or the ink is low.HP printer paper jam: how to clear it safelyA paper jam is one of the most common printer problems.HP printer not responding or not found after a Windows updateSometimes an HP printer that worked yesterday stops working after Windows updates.Canon PIXMA will not connect to Wi-FiIf your Canon PIXMA will not join your Wi-Fi, the cause is usually the network name, the password or the router band rather than a broken printer.Canon PRINT app: how to print and scan from your phoneCanon PRINT is Canon's free app for printing from a phone or tablet to many PIXMA and other Canon printers.Canon PIXMA prints blank or streaky: nozzle check and cleaningIf your Canon PIXMA prints blank pages, pale colours or white lines, the print head nozzles may be clogged, especially if the printer has not been used for a while.Canon PIXMA paper jam or paper will not feedCanon PIXMA printers can jam or refuse to pick up paper, often because of how the paper is loaded rather than a fault.Canon PIXMA: how to scan to your computer or phoneMany Canon PIXMA all-in-one printers can scan to a computer or phone.Canon PIXMA says ink is not recognised or low after replacing a cartridgeCanon inkjets can show a message that a cartridge is not recognised, or that ink is low, even after you fit a new one.Canon PIXMA: how to reinstall the driver on Windows or MacIf a Canon PIXMA stops printing or is not found after an update, reinstalling the driver often helps.Epson EcoTank: how to refill the ink tanks safelyEpson EcoTank printers have refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges.Epson EcoTank: how to reset ink levels after refillingAfter you top up an EcoTank, some models need you to tell the printer which tanks you have filled.Epson Smart Panel: how to set up your Epson printer on Wi-FiEpson Smart Panel is Epson's free app for setting up a printer and printing or scanning from a phone or tablet.Epson Connect: how to print by email and from anywhereEpson Connect is a set of Epson services that lets you print from outside your home network, for example by sending an email to your printer.Epson printer streaky or faded: head cleaning and nozzle checkStreaks, missing lines or faded colours on an Epson inkjet usually mean the print head is blocked or a tank is low.Epson printer says Offline or will not connect to Wi-FiWhen an Epson printer shows as offline, the computer or phone cannot reach it over the network.Epson printer paper jam or paper feed errorPaper jams on Epson printers are usually fixed by clearing the paper path carefully.Brother printer says Replace Toner but it is not emptyBrother laser printers can show Replace Toner even when the toner cartridge still has plenty left.Brother printer says Replace Drum: what it means and what to doBrother laser printers use two parts that wear out separately: the toner cartridge and the drum unit.Brother iPrint&Scan: how to print and scan from your phone or computerBrother iPrint&Scan is Brother's free app for printing and scanning from a smartphone, tablet or computer to a Brother printer.Brother printer will not connect to Wi-FiIf your Brother printer will not join your Wi-Fi, the network name, password or router band is usually to blame.Brother laser printer paper jam: how to clear it safelyBrother laser printers can jam in the tray, in the middle, or at the back.Brother laser printer prints streaks, lines or faint pagesBlack lines, faint areas or grey patches on a Brother laser printout usually point to the drum, the toner or dust on the corona wire.Brother printer: genuine toner or compatible? Pros, cons and warrantyWhen toner runs out, you can buy Brother's own cartridges or compatible ones from other makers.BT Smart Hub: what the light colours meanThe light on your BT Smart Hub tells you at a glance whether it is working.EE Smart Hub: what the light colours meanEE Smart Hubs use one light on the front to show their status.Virgin Media Hub 5: what the lights meanThe Virgin Media Hub 5 has a single light on the front, at the bottom right.Sky router: what the hub lights meanSky routers are usually called a Sky Hub, and models differ, so check the label on yours.Plusnet Hub: what the lights meanPlusnet supplies a Plusnet Hub (such as the Hub Two), and models change, so check the label on yours.TalkTalk Wi-Fi Hub: what the lights meanThe TalkTalk Wi-Fi Hub shows its status with a coloured light.Vodafone Wi-Fi Hub: what the lights meanVodafone broadband hubs, such as the Vodafone Wi-Fi Hub, have a row of lights on the front.Openreach fibre modem (ONT): what the lights meanIf you have full fibre broadband, there may be a small white box on the wall called an Openreach modem or ONT.BT Smart Hub: restart or factory reset, which one?People often mix up restarting a router and factory resetting it.Virgin Media Hub: no internet, what to doWhen the internet stops on a Virgin Media Hub, a few quick checks fix most problems.Sky router: how to change the Wi-Fi passwordChanging your Wi-Fi password stops old visitors, and anyone who has guessed it, from using your broadband.BT Smart Hub: change Wi-Fi name and password with Hub ManagerYou can change the Wi-Fi name and password on a BT Smart Hub using BT's Hub Manager page in a web browser, or the BT app.Virgin Media Hub: change Wi-Fi name and passwordVirgin Media Hubs let you change your Wi-Fi name and password from a web page or the Virgin Media Connect app.EE Smart Hub: how to log in to the settings pageMost people never need to open their router's settings page, but you may need it to change the Wi-Fi password or see which devices are connected.Plusnet Hub: how to restart it and log in safelyPlusnet supplies its own Hub, such as the Hub Two.TalkTalk router: restart, reset and Wi-Fi passwordHere is a plain guide to restarting your TalkTalk Wi-Fi Hub, when a reset is needed, and where to find your Wi-Fi password.How to check if your broadband provider has an outageBefore you restart the router for the tenth time, check whether your provider already knows about a problem.How to report a broadband fault and when you need an engineerIf your broadband stops working and basic checks do not fix it, you will need to report a fault to your provider.Moving house: broadband checklistMoving home is busy, and broadband is easy to forget.Switching broadband provider: One Touch Switch and setting up a new routerChanging broadband provider can feel daunting, but the process is meant to be simple.Samsung TV will not turn on, red standby light or clicking noiseA Samsung TV that will not switch on is usually a power or remote problem rather than a broken screen.Samsung TV keeps turning itself off or restartingIf your Samsung TV switches off on its own, or restarts and shows the Samsung logo again, there is often a simple setting or connection causing it.Samsung TV has a black screen but I can hear soundSound but no picture can look alarming, but it often turns out to be a setting, a cable or the backlight.Samsung TV has a picture but no soundWhen the picture works but there is no sound, the cause is nearly always a setting, a connected speaker or a cable.Samsung TV says no signal or HDMI is not workingA "No Signal" message means the TV is not receiving anything from the device you have selected.Samsung TV remote not working: how to re-pair the Smart RemoteIf your Samsung remote has stopped responding, the cause is usually flat batteries or a lost Bluetooth link with the TV.Samsung TV will not connect to Wi-Fi or keeps dropping the connectionA Samsung TV that cannot find Wi-Fi, will not connect or keeps disconnecting is usually affected by the router, distance or a setting.Samsung TV apps such as Netflix, iPlayer, ITVX, Prime Video, Disney+ or YouTube crash or will not loadWhen an app on your Samsung TV freezes, closes itself or shows a spinning wheel, the cause is usually the internet connection, the app itself or old software.Samsung account sign-in problems and Samsung account versus Apple or GoogleSamsung TVs ask for a Samsung account for some features.Samsung TV is slow, laggy or freezingSamsung TVs get slower over time as apps build up and software ages.How to update the software on your Samsung TV and what to do if the update failsUpdating keeps your Samsung TV secure and can fix picture, sound and app problems.How to factory reset a Samsung TV safelyA factory reset puts the TV back to how it was when you bought it.Samsung TV channels missing: how to retune Freeview and check your aerialIf Freeview channels have vanished, or you see "No Signal" or a pixelated picture, retuning and checking the aerial usually solves it in the UK.Samsung TV and Freesat: how to set it up and fix missing channelsFreesat brings TV channels via a satellite dish instead of a rooftop aerial.What is Samsung TV Plus and how do I watch or remove itSamsung TV Plus is a free streaming service built into many Samsung TVs.How to connect a soundbar to a Samsung TV using HDMI ARC, eARC or opticalA soundbar can make TV speech and music much clearer.Samsung TV sound out of sync with the pictureLip sync problems, where speech does not match the mouth, are common with soundbars, Bluetooth speakers and some apps.How to connect Bluetooth headphones to a Samsung TVBluetooth headphones are handy for late-night viewing, or if someone is hard of hearing.How to mirror an iPhone or Android phone to a Samsung TVYou can show photos, videos and your whole phone screen on a Samsung TV.How to set up SmartThings with a Samsung TV and use your phone as a remoteThe SmartThings app lets you add your Samsung TV to your phone and use it as a remote control.Samsung TV voice assistant: setting up and fixing Bixby, Alexa and Google AssistantMany Samsung TVs let you speak to the remote or use a smart speaker to change channels, search or control volume.Samsung TV picture settings explained: Movie mode, Game mode, Eco mode and motion smoothingSamsung TVs come with several picture modes and extras.How to fix a blurry, dark or washed-out picture on a Samsung TVA blurry, grey or washed-out picture is often a setting or a source problem rather than a broken TV.Samsung TV 4K or HDR not working: cables and settingsIf you paid for a 4K or HDR TV but the picture does not look special, the TV may not be receiving 4K or HDR.How to use Game Mode on a Samsung TV for consolesGame Mode makes a Samsung TV respond faster to your controller.Samsung TV screen burn-in, dead pixels or vertical lines: when it is a warranty faultLines, spots and ghost images can be upsetting, but some are normal and some are warranty faults.How to find your Samsung TV model number, serial number and warrantyYou need your model number to find the right remote, manual, software or help.How to clean a Samsung TV screen safelyA TV screen scratches and marks easily, so gentle cleaning is best.Wall-mounting a Samsung TV safely: why you should hire a professionalA wall-mounted TV looks neat, but a falling TV can cause serious injury and damage.Samsung TV privacy and ads settings: how to limit trackingSmart TVs can collect information about what you watch and show personalised adverts.How to set up parental controls and change the PIN on a Samsung TVSamsung TVs let you lock channels, apps and age-rated programmes with a PIN.Samsung TV Art Mode, The Frame and Ambient Mode explainedSome Samsung TVs can show artwork, photos or soft backgrounds when you are not watching.How to connect a laptop or PC to a Samsung TVYou can use your TV as a big second screen for a laptop or PC, either with a cable or wirelessly.Samsung TV subtitles and audio description in the UKSubtitles and audio description make TV easier to follow.Samsung Galaxy: how to move everything to a new phone with Smart SwitchSmart Switch is Samsung's free app for copying your photos, contacts, messages and apps from an old phone to a new Galaxy.Samsung account and Google account explained for Galaxy phone ownersA Samsung Galaxy phone can use two different accounts, and many people mix them up.Samsung Galaxy: backing up with Samsung Cloud or Google, and which to useA backup is a safety copy of your phone, kept online, so a lost or broken phone does not mean lost photos and contacts.Samsung phone slow or storage full: using Device Care to speed it upPhones slow down when storage is nearly full or when too many apps run in the background.Samsung Galaxy battery draining fast: checks and Protect battery settingBattery life drops over the years, but sudden fast draining usually has a fixable cause.Samsung phone will not charge, charges slowly or shows a wet port warningA Galaxy that will not charge is usually down to the cable, plug or a dirty port rather than a dead phone.Samsung Galaxy: screen black, frozen or not responding, and how to restart itA frozen or black screen is alarming, but the phone is often still working underneath.Samsung Galaxy: apps crashing, clearing the cache and using Safe modeWhen one app keeps closing, the cause is often a full cache or an old version.Samsung Galaxy: find a lost phone with Find My Mobile and SmartThings FindIf your Galaxy goes missing, Samsung's find service can show roughly where it is, make it ring and lock it.Samsung Galaxy: lock screen options and Secure Folder basicsA strong lock keeps strangers out of your photos, messages and banking apps.Samsung Galaxy: notifications not showing and setting up Do Not DisturbMissing alerts are usually caused by battery saving or a notification setting, not a fault.Samsung Galaxy: Wi-Fi calling, mobile data and hotspot problemsCalls, texts and the internet each depend on different settings.Samsung Galaxy: pairing Galaxy Buds and fixing Bluetooth problemsGalaxy Buds, speakers and car systems connect using Bluetooth.Samsung Wallet and tap to pay on a Galaxy: the basicsSamsung Wallet lets you keep bank cards, loyalty cards, tickets and some digital keys on your phone.Samsung Galaxy: screenshots, screen recording, Edge panels and one-handed modeGalaxy phones have several shortcuts that save time.Samsung Galaxy: make text bigger and use accessibility settingsIf text on your Galaxy is hard to read, you do not need to squint.Samsung keyboard problems: typing lag, predictive text and wrong wordsThe Samsung Keyboard learns from what you type, which is handy, but it can pick up bad habits or lag.Samsung Internet: stop pop-ups, adverts and unwanted notificationsSamsung Internet is the browser that comes with Galaxy phones.Samsung Galaxy: how to update One UI safelySamsung sends updates to fix problems, close security holes and sometimes add features.Samsung Galaxy: how to factory reset safely, with warningsA factory reset wipes everything on the phone and puts it back as it was when new.Samsung Galaxy Tab: DeX, split screen and S Pen not workingGalaxy Tab tablets include extra tools for working with more than one app and for writing with the S Pen.Samsung phone call quality problems, blocking spam calls and fixing choppy callsIf calls sound muffled, cut out or you cannot hear the other person, first check the simple things.Samsung Galaxy camera problems: blurry photos and camera app crashingMost blurry photos come from a dirty lens.Samsung Galaxy: find your IMEI, model number and check your warrantyProviders, repairers and insurers often ask for your model number and IMEI.Fake delivery texts: Royal Mail, DPD and EvriMany people get a text saying a parcel is waiting and a small fee is due.The fake bank call and the 'safe account' scamSomeone rings, says they are from your bank or the police, and tells you your money is in danger.HMRC, TV licence, Amazon and PayPal scamsScammers like to pretend to be big names that most of us deal with.Romance and investment scamsThese scams are slow and patient.Remote access scams and tech-support cold callsA caller says they are from Microsoft, your broadband provider or "tech support" and that your computer has a problem.Fake QR code scamsQR codes are those square black and white patterns you scan with your phone camera.WhatsApp scams: 'Hi Mum' and account takeoverWhatsApp is a handy way to keep in touch, which is why scammers use it too.Buying and selling safely on Facebook Marketplace, Vinted and eBayOnline marketplaces are a great way to find a bargain or clear out your home.How to check whether a website is realFake websites can look just like the real thing, so it helps to have a few simple checks.What to do if you clicked a bad linkIt happens to nearly everyone at some point.What to do if you gave away your card detailsIf you have typed your card number into a fake site or read it out to a scammer, you can act quickly to limit the harm.What to do if you gave away a passwordIf you have shared a password with a scammer or typed it into a fake page, the fix is simple: change it quickly.Has your email been in a data breach? Using Have I Been PwnedSometimes a company is hacked and customer details are leaked.Do you need antivirus beyond Windows Security?Many people are told they must buy extra antivirus software.Ransomware basics and why backups matterRansomware is a type of harmful software that locks your files and demands money to unlock them.Staying safe on public Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi in cafes, hotels, trains and libraries is handy.Shopping online safelyShopping online is convenient and, with a few habits, very safe.Securing your Facebook and Instagram accountsFacebook and Instagram are the platforms where we see the most hacked accounts.Recovering a hacked social media accountFinding your Facebook, Instagram or other social media account has been taken over is upsetting.Keeping an older relative safe online: how to start the conversationIf you are worried about a parent, grandparent or friend falling for scams, it is natural to want to help.LG TV: no sound from the TV speakersIf your LG TV shows a picture but stays silent, the cause is usually a setting rather than a broken speaker.LG TV: black screen or no pictureA black screen on an LG TV can mean the TV is off, on the wrong input, or needs a restart.LG TV: Wi-Fi will not connect or keeps droppingSmart features on an LG TV need a working internet connection.LG TV: apps will not open, crash or will not updateLG TVs run apps through webOS.LG Magic Remote: how to re-pair itThe LG Magic Remote has a pointer and a scroll wheel.LG TV: software update and factory resetKeeping an LG TV up to date helps apps run smoothly.Sony Google TV: first-time set-up and getting aroundMany recent Sony TVs run Google TV (older ones run Android TV).Sony TV: apps slow, crashing or running out of storageSony Google TV and Android TV models have limited built-in storage.Hisense TV: common problems and simple fixesHisense TVs use several systems.Panasonic TV: basics for input, sound, picture and updatesPanasonic TVs come in several types.Picture modes on LG, Sony, Hisense and Panasonic TVs explainedEvery TV has picture modes that change colour, brightness and sharpness.Freeview: pixelating or breaking up picture, and aerial checksIf your Freeview picture freezes, breaks into squares or loses channels, the cause is usually a weak or disturbed aerial signal.BBC iPlayer, ITVX or Channel 4 not working on Freeview PlayFreeview Play adds on-demand apps, such as BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4, to your aerial channels.Freesat: channels missing and how to retuneFreesat comes from a satellite dish rather than an aerial.Sky box says 'No signal'A 'No signal' message on a Sky box can come from the TV, the HDMI lead or the Sky signal itself.Sky Q and Sky Stream: restart, remote pairing and Wi-Fi Mini problemsSky Q and Sky Stream boxes are generally reliable, but a restart cures many faults.Virgin Media TV box not working: restart and remote problemsVirgin Media offers several boxes, including the V6, 360, Stream and TiVo.BT TV and EE TV boxes: basic fixesBT and EE TV boxes stream programmes over broadband, so a TV fault is often a broadband fault.Roku, Apple TV and Chromecast with Google TV: no picture, Wi-Fi and remote problemsThese small streaming devices plug into your TV.How to use ARC and eARC with a soundbar on your TVARC and eARC let your TV send sound to a soundbar through one HDMI lead.How to watch live TV without an aerialIf you cannot, or do not want to, use an aerial, there are other ways to watch live channels.TV licence: do you need one?In the UK, a TV licence is a legal requirement for some types of viewing.My laptop will not chargeA laptop that will not charge is usually down to the charger, the socket or a small fault in the charging port.Laptop battery drains fastIf your laptop battery used to last all day and now struggles for a couple of hours, something is either using too much power or the battery is getting old.Black screen when Windows startsA black screen can mean the laptop is on but the display is not showing anything, or that Windows has stopped part-way through starting.Blue screen error: what to doA blue screen means Windows hit a problem it could not safely carry on with, so it stopped and restarted.Windows stuck on updating or update failsWindows updates can take a long time, and sometimes they stall or fail with an error.Forgot my Windows password or cannot sign in to Microsoft accountBeing locked out is stressful, but there are safe official ways back in.Windows takes ages to start upIf your laptop takes several minutes to reach the desktop, the usual cause is too many programs loading at once, or a drive that is nearly full.Disk 100%, high memory or CPU use in Task ManagerTask Manager shows how hard your laptop is working.Laptop gets hot and shuts itself offLaptops get warm when they work hard, but if yours is too hot to touch or switches off suddenly, it is protecting itself from overheating.Touchpad not working on my laptopWhen a touchpad stops responding, it is often switched off by accident, or Windows has a minor glitch.Keyboard keys not working or typing the wrong charactersIf pressing a key gives you the wrong symbol, or some keys do nothing, the cause is often a setting rather than a broken keyboard.Wi-Fi or Bluetooth option missing on my laptopIf the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth buttons have vanished from the taskbar, Windows may have switched them off, or the hardware has stopped being detected.Microphone not working on WindowsIf people cannot hear you on calls, the microphone is usually muted, switched off in privacy settings, or not chosen as the input device.External monitor or second screen not detectedWhen you plug in a monitor, TV or projector and nothing appears, the fault is usually the cable, the input setting on the screen, or a Windows display mode.Screen flickering or brightness controls missingA flickering screen, or brightness keys that do nothing, are both often down to the display driver or a setting.An app keeps crashing or will not openWhen a program closes by itself, freezes, or does nothing when you click it, the fix is usually simple.Search, Start menu or taskbar not respondingIf clicking Start does nothing, the search box will not type, or the taskbar seems frozen, a part of Windows called Windows Explorer has usually stalled.How to check your Windows version, PC specs and Windows 11 readinessKnowing what Windows you have and what your PC is made of helps when buying software, getting support, or deciding whether you can upgrade to Windows 11.How to free up space with Storage SenseStorage Sense is a built-in Windows tool that clears out temporary files and the contents of your Recycle Bin for you.How to uninstall programs you do not needRemoving programs you no longer use frees up space and can make your laptop run better.How to start Windows in Safe ModeSafe Mode starts Windows with only the basics.How to use System Restore to undo a problemSystem Restore takes Windows back to an earlier point, before a problem began.How to reset this PC (and keep your files safe)Reset this PC reinstalls Windows.How to back up your folders with OneDriveOneDrive is Microsoft's cloud storage.How to set up a new Windows laptop safelyA few careful steps in the first hour make your new laptop safer, faster and easier to look after.How to transfer files between two PCsMoving your photos and documents to a new or different PC is easy if you use the right method.How to run a virus scan with Windows SecurityWindows comes with free protection called Windows Security.Windows shortcuts, screenshots and screen recordingA few keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of clicking.How to change your default browser or default appsDefault apps are the programs Windows uses automatically, for example to open a web link, a PDF or a photo.Windows 10 end of support: what it means for youMicrosoft stopped providing regular support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025.Windows keeps showing Automatic Repair or 'Your PC did not start correctly'Sometimes Windows tries to fix itself at start-up, fails, restarts and tries again, round and round.'No bootable device' or the PC beeps when it startsIf your PC shows a message like No bootable device, Operating system not found or Reboot and select proper boot device, or it makes a series of beeps and nothing appears, it cannot find or start Windows.Windows stuck on 'Restarting' or 'Getting Windows ready'After an update, your PC may sit for a long time on Restarting, Working on updates or Getting Windows ready.Black screen with only a mouse pointer after sign-inIf you sign in and see a plain black screen with a mouse pointer you can move, Windows has started but the desktop (the taskbar, icons and Start button) has not loaded.PIN, fingerprint or face sign-in not working on WindowsWindows lets you sign in with a PIN, a fingerprint or your face.Microsoft account or local account? Adding another user to your PCWhen you set up Windows, you choose how you sign in.Family Safety: parental controls on a Windows PCMicrosoft Family Safety lets a parent set screen time limits, filter websites and see what a child does on their Windows PC.'Windows is not activated' message: what to doA message such as Windows is not activated, or a small watermark in the corner of the screen, means Windows cannot confirm that your copy is genuine.Mouse pointer frozen or jumping, and the keyboard typing the wrong symbolsTwo common irritations have simple fixes: a mouse pointer that freezes or jumps about, and a keyboard where the @ and quote marks swap or the pound sign turns into a hash.'This app can't run on your PC' and programs that will not installThese messages are usually about compatibility: the program was not made for your version of Windows, or something is stopping it from installing.Microsoft Store will not open, download or update appsThe Microsoft Store is where Windows gets apps such as Photos, Calculator and many programs.Task Manager explained simply, and how to manage start-up appsTask Manager shows what your PC is busy doing.A program says 'Not responding': what to do and how not to lose your workWhen a window goes white or grey and the title bar says Not responding, the program is busy or stuck.My computer restarts by itselfA PC that restarts without being asked is annoying, and sometimes a sign of a deeper fault.Blue screen stop codes in plain EnglishA blue screen shows a stop code, which is the name of the problem in capital letters.How to check battery health and use Battery saverAll laptop batteries wear out gradually.Sleep, hibernate, Fast Startup and what happens when you close the laptop lidWindows has several ways of switching a PC off or pausing it.'Your computer is low on memory' and virtual memory basicsWindows can show a message saying Your computer is low on memory.Disk Cleanup and Cleanup recommendations: clearing space safelyWindows can list files that are safe to remove, such as temporary files and old installers.OneDrive is using all my storage: Files On-Demand explainedOneDrive can keep your files in the cloud and show them on the PC without taking up space.Where did my file go? Finding and recovering deleted filesLosing a file is stressful, but there are several places to look, and often it can be brought back.Backing up with File History and the Windows Backup appA backup is a second copy of your files somewhere else.Wiping a PC safely before you sell or give it awayDeleting files or emptying the Recycle Bin does not really erase them.Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, step by stepWindows 11 is a free upgrade for PCs that meet its requirements.Windows 11 compared with Windows 10: what is different?If you move from Windows 10 to Windows 11, most things work the same way, but several are moved around.Customising the taskbar and Start menuYou can make Windows easier to use by putting your favourite programs where you can reach them.Snap layouts and virtual desktops: working with several windowsIf you have a lot of windows open, Windows can arrange them neatly side by side or in separate workspaces.Making Windows easier on the eyes: dark mode, Night light, text size and MagnifierWindows has built-in settings to make the screen more comfortable, whether you want bigger text, a warmer colour in the evening or the screen read aloud.Blurry text, wrong-sized screen and projecting with Windows key + PIf everything looks fuzzy, too big, too small or stretched, the screen settings are usually the cause.Wi-Fi says 'Can't connect to this network': forgetting a network and resettingWhen your laptop refuses to join Wi-Fi, a few steps in order solve most cases.Adding and removing a printer in WindowsWindows can usually find a printer by itself.Windows Update error codes: what to try safelyWhen an update fails, Windows shows a code beginning with 0x, such as 0x80070002 or 0x800f0922.Windows Security: scans, exclusions and ransomware protectionWindows Security is the free protection built into Windows 10 and 11.Removing adware and unwanted toolbars, and resetting your browserIf your browser has a home page you did not choose, extra toolbars, endless adverts or searches that go to strange sites, you probably have adware or an unwanted extension.Browser profiles in Edge and Chrome: keeping work and personal separateA browser profile is a separate set of bookmarks, passwords, history and settings.Speeding up an old laptop honestly: when a tidy-up helps and when to upgradeNobody can make a ten-year-old laptop feel brand new, but there are cheap changes that really help, and some warning signs that it is time to move on.What to look for when buying a Windows laptop or PC for everyday useFor email, browsing, video calls, documents and photos you do not need a top-of-the-range machine, but a few specifications decide whether it will still feel good in five years.Clipboard history and everyday copy-and-paste shortcutsYou probably know Ctrl + C to copy and Ctrl + V to paste.Snipping Tool: capture, mark up and share part of your screenThe Snipping Tool lets you capture just the part of the screen you want, such as an error message, then draw on it and send it.Typing with your voice in WindowsYou can speak and have Windows type for you, which is useful if typing is tiring, difficult or slow.Focus assist and Do not disturb: stop notifications getting in the wayPop-up banners and sounds can interrupt a video call, a presentation or just some quiet work.Quick Assist: letting someone you trust help you remotelyQuick Assist is a free tool in Windows 10 and 11 that lets a helper see your screen, and with your permission take control, to fix a problem.
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